Do I Have a Different Deductible for Wind and Hail?

When it comes to roofing claims, one of the most common sources of confusion for homeowners is this: “Do I have a separate deductible for wind and hail damage?” The short answer? Probably. The longer answer? Let’s dig in.

A standard homeowners insurance policy might sound like it covers everything the same way—but tucked inside the fine print are often different deductibles for specific types of damage. Wind and hail, thanks to their destructive nature, are two of the most common—and most expensive—sources of roof damage. So insurers have found a way to limit their risk: separate deductibles.

Let’s break it down so you’re not surprised when the next storm rolls through.

What Is a Wind and Hail Deductible?

A wind and hail deductible is the portion of a claim you’re responsible for paying out of pocket if your home is damaged by—you guessed it—wind or hail. While most homeowners think of deductibles as a flat fee (like $1,000), wind and hail deductibles are often calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value.

So, if your home is insured for $300,000 and you have a 2% wind/hail deductible, you’d be responsible for $6,000 before your insurance even kicks in.

That’s a far cry from a flat $1,000—and it’s one of the main reasons homeowners find themselves caught off guard after filing a claim.

Want to know more about percentage-based deductibles and how they’re changing the insurance landscape? Check out our post on percentage-based insurance deductibles.

Why Do Insurers Use Separate Deductibles for Wind and Hail?

Because wind and hail are so common—and so costly.

Severe weather has caused billions of dollars in damage across the country in recent years. To manage those growing costs, insurance companies have created separate deductibles that apply only when the cause of damage is wind or hail. That way, they can keep general premiums lower while still protecting their bottom line.

In fact, separate wind/hail deductibles are now standard in many states, especially in storm-prone areas like the Midwest, South, and parts of the Plains.

According to State Farm, understanding your deductibles—and how they vary by claim type—is essential to avoiding unwelcome financial surprises.

How to Know If You Have a Wind and Hail Deductible

Here’s how to check:

• Look at your declarations page: This is the summary sheet of your policy. You’ll often see terms like “Wind/Hail Deductible,” “Named Storm Deductible,” or “All Perils Deductible.”
• Call your insurance agent: Ask them directly: “Do I have a separate deductible for wind and hail damage?” Also ask if it’s a flat amount or a percentage.
• Check your online policy portal: Most insurers let you log in and review your policy details.

If you’re seeing phrases like “1% deductible” or “2% deductible” listed next to wind and hail, that’s your answer.

Do All Policies Include This?

Not all—but it’s becoming more common.

Some older policies or more expensive premium options may still have flat-rate deductibles across the board. But the industry trend is moving toward percentage-based wind and hail deductibles, especially in areas with frequent weather events.

What’s the Difference Between a Wind/Hail Deductible and an All Perils Deductible?

An All Perils Deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket for most types of claims—fire, theft, water damage, etc. It’s often a flat amount like $500 or $1,000.

A Wind/Hail Deductible only applies when the damage is caused by—you guessed it—wind or hail. And as we mentioned, this is often a percentage of your home’s insured value.

It’s possible (and common) to have a $1,000 All Perils Deductible and a 2% Wind/Hail Deductible on the same policy.

What This Means for You as a Homeowner

You need to know your numbers.

Imagine thinking your deductible is $1,000, only to discover after a hailstorm that you’re responsible for paying $5,000 before insurance helps. That’s not just an unpleasant surprise—it could mean delaying repairs or dipping into emergency savings.

If you live in an area like Missouri, where storms are frequent and intense, having clarity on your policy is essential.

Can You Change or Lower a Wind and Hail Deductible?

Sometimes. Here’s how:

• Ask your insurer: Some companies let you choose between a flat and a percentage-based deductible—though your premium may go up.
• Shop around: Other insurance providers might offer better options.
• Bundle policies: In some cases, bundling home and auto can get you better terms.

It never hurts to ask your agent: “Can I lower this deductible?” or “Is there a policy without a wind/hail percentage?”

Tips to Prepare Before Storm Season

• Take photos of your roof and home exterior for documentation.
• Keep a copy of your policy and declarations page in a safe place.
• Have your roof inspected regularly so you’re aware of its condition before a claim ever happens.

At Brody Allen Exteriors, we help homeowners understand what their policies really mean—not just install great roofs. Whether you’re preparing for storm season or dealing with a claim, our team is here to help you navigate the fine print.

Final Thoughts

Yes—you can have a different deductible for wind and hail damage, and yes—it can be thousands more than you expected.

Don’t wait until a claim to figure it out. Take ten minutes to look up your policy, talk to your agent, and understand your coverage. You’ll thank yourself when the next storm hits.

Need a roof inspection or want to better understand how your deductible applies to your home? Contact Brody Allen Exteriors today. We’re local, knowledgeable, and ready to help.